that can drag our entire economy down. the good news is there is a better option -- right now, as we speak, congress can pass a law that would prevent a tax hike, the first $250,000 of everybody's income. everybody -- that means that 98% of america and 97% of small businesses would not see their taxes go up by a single dime. 98% of americans, a 97% of small businesses would not see their income taxes increased. even the wealthiest americans would still get a tax cut, the first $250,000 of their income. it is not like folks who make more than that are not getting a tax break -- they are getting a tax break on the first $250,000 like everybody else. families and small businesses will be able to enjoy some peace of mind heading into christmas and the new year. it will give us more time next year to work together on a comprehensive plan to bring down our deficits, streamline our tax system, and do it in a balanced way. including asking the wealthiest americans to pay a little more so we can still invest in things like educatio